Wedding Etiquette Q&A: "What do we need to know about hosting a summer beach wedding?"

beach wedding
Photo Credit: Limelight Photography

Q: My partner and I would like to marry at a beach resort next summer. Any tips on colors and flower choices, as well as what we need to consider for our guests?

A: Summer weddings offer a great opportunity to select gorgeous in-season flowers, like roses, sunflowers, hydrangeas, daisies, dahlias and zinnias, to name a few. There are also fantastic colors and fun décor details to choose from. A nautical theme using navy blue and white is a classic for seaside celebrations, while sunny yellow and coral shades will brighten up any summer reception. Other popular colors include a mix of vivid tropical hues or shades of blue, from aqua and sea-foam to turquoise. And all-white weddings with heaps of greenery work any time of the year.

Most beach resorts have dedicated wedding coordinators who will help you with your decision making. You'll be able to choose the colors, table décor and flowers that best suit your style via the wedding packages offered by many resorts.

When it comes to your guests, always keep them well-informed. Send out save-the-dates once you know the location and date, look into group rates, create a wedding website and prepare welcome bags that include an itinerary of events and any treats indigenous to the location.

If you're marrying outdoors and the weather will be hot and steamy, be sure to provide guests with cool drinks, bottled water, fans or paper parasols, and always, always have a Plan B—an indoor location — in case there's bad weather.

And don't forget to pack your own day-of emergency kit that includes blotting tissues, sunscreen and makeup for touch-ups.

—Mary Clarke